Meet The Team

JOEL LABERTEW – LEAD PASTOR

Joel and his wife, Angela, along with their three children Jacob (19), Samuel (17), and Lilia (11) arrived as lead pastors in June 2015. Prior to their arrival at First Assembly, the Labertew’s were on staff at Calvary Church in Naperville. The Labertew’s planted Southwest Community Church, Plainfield in 2001 with a handful of families and pastored there for twelve years. They’ve also served as youth pastors in Chicago and Joliet, IL

Joel was born and raised in Indianola, IA. Angela was born and raised in Elkhart, IN. They met in college and have been married since 1994. They both enjoy excellent food, well brewed coffee, and quiet getaways. They love empowering those around them to live to the fullest.

What do you enjoy doing for fun?

I enjoy waking up early to get things done, restful afternoons with good music on my Bowers & Wilkins headphones, and a slow, well-presented meal with Angela.

DR. DAVID RUMLEY – EXECUTIVE PASTOR

Dr. Dave became the Executive Pastor mid-year 2013. His education background is a Doctorate (EdD) in Organizational Leadership, Masters in Advanced Leadership, Masters in Theological Studies, and a Bachelors in Cultural Studies with a minor in Marketing. Most important, Dave and Michelle have three kids; Amanda, Jacob, and Hannah, with one dog named Biscuit. Dave works directly with all our Small Groups and Adult Ministry opportunities. Growing up in a military family Dave moved a lot and grew up with a broad view of life. He loves a great story and is always looking for ways to help dreams become reality for those pursuing God’s Kingdom.

What do you enjoy doing for fun?

I love a good movie! Not just the cool graphics (fun), but ones with depth and meaning also. Most of all I love my family! I enjoy any chance I get to spend time with them.

KENNY HACKBARTH – WORSHIP & CREATIVE ARTS PASTOR

Kenny, Katie, and their son Gavin are originally from Kenosha, WI. Kenny graduated from the School of Urban Missions in 2015 with a Bachelors Degree in Pastoral Ministry. Katie also graduated from the School of Urban Missions in 2016 with a Bachelors Degree in Biblical Studies.

Kenny has a passion for building healthy teams that work hard and have fun. His greatest desire is that he would be remembered for pursuing the heart of God above all else.

What do you enjoy doing for fun?

I enjoy watching Netflix/Hulu with my wife, drinking coffee, buying new kicks, and spending time with family and friends.

JOSE MARTINEZ – SPANISH PASTOR

Jose and Melissa have been rooted in First Assembly since childhood. Jose attended North Central Bible College where he developed a passion for helping people connect with God. Melissa is blessed with a beautiful musical ability and is fluent in Spanish. God and their children are priorities for them. Jose and Melissa, along with their family, desire to impact and influence the Hispanic community to love God and love one another.

What do you enjoy doing for fun?

I enjoy golfing, singing, and hanging out with my evergrowing family.

JALEIGH PORTILLO – ASSOCIATE KIDS PASTOR

Jaleigh is the Children’s Ministry Director for both English and Spanish services. She has been a part of the children’s ministry department for entire time she has attended 1AGBN, and came on staff with our Next Generation team in 2014. Jaleigh was a special education teacher before coming on staff and pursuing ministry classes through Illinois School of Ministry. Jaleigh loves to see kids connecting with God in worship and prayer.

What do you enjoy doing for fun?

I enjoy playing nerdy board games, as long as I’m not the one responsible for reading and knowing all the 20+ pages of instructions and have someone to remind me of all the little details when we play. And I love to find new recipes with random combinations of ingredients to cook that turn out amazingly delicious!

KYLE GONZALEZ – COLLEGE & YOUNG ADULTS DIRECTOR

Kyle and Stephanie are originally from Florida. They started attending First Assembly after relocating to Illinois for Stephanie’s work. After working in the Corporate world for 15 years in various leadership positions, Kyle started attending Illinois School of Ministry to obtain his pastoral credentials.

In the summer of 2016, Kyle and Stephanie kicked off the College and Young Adult Ministry. Their passion is to share how God worked in their life with the next generation, inspiring others in their faith journey. Their motto is to “do life together”, while involving their 4 young children and spreading His word through their actions.

What do you enjoy doing for fun?

I enjoy spending time with my wife and watching our 4 children grow and look at life thru their eyes. I am a sports addict, namely the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, Miami Hurricanes and IU basketball!